Shirley Raines, known for her work as a social media creator and founder of a nonprofit dedicated to assisting those experiencing homelessness, has passed away at the age of 58, as announced by her organization, Beauty 2 the Streets.
To her over 5 million TikTok followers, she was affectionately called “Ms. Shirley.” Many of those who received food, beauty services, and hygiene items from her efforts on Skid Row in Los Angeles and in homeless communities across California and Nevada will remember her fondly.
Beauty 2 the Streets remarked on social media that Raines had an “immeasurable impact” on countless lives.
Information regarding the cause of her death hasn’t been released yet, but the organization plans to provide updates when available.
“In her relentless advocacy and profound compassion, Shirley used her strong media presence to spotlight the struggles of those in need, bringing dignity and hope to the most marginalized,” the organization noted.
Raines, a mother of six, had a deeply personal story. When she was honored as CNN’s Hero of the Year in 2021, she shared how the loss of one of her sons in infancy left her feeling “damaged.” It was this heartache that led her to begin her work helping the homeless.
“I want him back more than anything,” she reflected. “But there are a lot of people in the city who don’t have mothers. I feel like it’s a fair exchange. I’m here for them.”
Raines engaged with the homeless community starting in 2017. Just recently, she shared a video of herself distributing boxed lunches from her car, where her signature warmth shone through as she addressed her clients with honor, calling them “kings” and “queens.”
One individual excitedly informed her about moving into an apartment, and her joy was palpable. In another recent video, she compassionately provided shoes to a barefoot child waiting for food, showcasing her constant thoughtfulness.
Los Angeles faces a severe homeless crisis, particularly highlighted in downtown areas like Skid Row, where makeshift shelters and tents are common. A considerable study revealed that around 72,000 individuals were homeless on any given night across Los Angeles County.
According to Curshaw Herring from the Sidewalk Project, Raines was both sentimental and protective of the homeless community, which they serve through art and empowerment programs. The news of her death has shocked many, both from Skid Row and the broader community. “She made such a difference; everyone looked forward to her visits,” Herring noted. “Everyone deserves to feel dignified, and her work reminded people of that.”
Raines often uplifted those around her through acts of kindness, offering haircuts and essentials, making her clients feel valued. Herring emphasized that many individuals she helped eventually became involved in the organization, creating a community spirit and sense of responsibility.
In 2025, Raines received the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Social Media Personality, and her loss prompted heartfelt tributes from fellow creators. Alexis Nicole Nelson remarked, “Shirley truly was the best of us. She was love incarnate.” Upworthy expressed their shock, thanking her for her inspiration and wishing her peace.
